Group Writing

Group writing takes many forms and can range from lab reports to capstone papers to grant proposals. While the length and requirements of these projects may vary, the completion of group writing depends on a group’s ability to communicate and cooperate. This handout is a supplement to assignment guidelines and provides suggestions on how to effectively collaborate on group writing projects.

Managing Expectations

When you begin a group writing project, meet as early as possible to discuss your group’s goals and expectations. Come to a collective agreement on project details, the division of labor, quality of work, meeting times, deadlines, and forms of communication. By establishing expectations early on, individual responsibilities can be determined, and potential confusion may be reduced.

The Collaborative Process

Collaboration—and its fundamental components of communication and cooperation—are key to group writing. As with any group project, it is important to foster an environment in which all individuals are heard and acknowledged. Remember that everyone has ownership over the writing, and as such, everyone bears the responsibility of listening to others, contributing to the project, and being willing to compromise.

Maintaining Cohesion

Unifying the voice and tone within group writing is essential to maintaining cohesion. Your group can do this by establishing a standardized format and style, communicating throughout the writing process, and collaborating on revisions. The strategies for maintaining cohesion may vary depending on whether your group is writing at the same time (synchronously) or at different times (asynchronously).

Tips for Synchronous Writing

• Ensure that everyone is contributing to the various aspects of the writing process, whether that be brainstorming, researching, writing, or revising.
• Actively discuss ideas and potential phrasing, organization, and cohesion while writing.
• Read through the writing aloud together once it is completed, and collectively discuss revisions.

Tips for Asynchronous Writing

• Designate clear writing assignments to prevent overlap and ensure participation and completion.
• Complete individual writing early to allow adequate time for editing and proofreading.
• Track changes, make comments, and suggest edits to your fellow collaborators; check the software your group is using to identify what tools are available.

Contributor Accountability

At times, working in a group can be frustrating, especially when the load is not being evenly distributed or adequately completed. Check in with your group members periodically to assess everyone’s progress and, when necessary, to remind them of the established expectations. It is a matter of academic integrity to complete your own work and to allow your group members to complete theirs. Whenever possible, keep track of group communication in case issues arise. If issues persist, consider contacting your professor for guidance or adjustment within your group.